Thursday, 15 August 2013

Mazda Shinari Concept

Shinari was a 2010 concept model that was used to launch Mazda's new Kodo design philosophy. Kodo is an evolution of the earlier Nagare design range that included the Furai (sound of wind), Hakaze (leaf/wind), Ryuga (gracious flow), Takai (atmosphere), and the Nagare (flow) concept cars. The Nagare designs were inspired by nature and the effects of movement, the new Kodo theme builds on this and takes inspiration from the powerful motion of animals. Mazda press release follows:

Mazda Shinari is a 4-door, 4-seat, sports coupe and a pure expression of the new design theme, 'KODO - Soul of Motion', in its idealized form. Mazda Shinari showcases several new design elements that will carry forward into production, and represents the first initiative by Mazda Design to express 'KODO - Soul of Motion'.

The Japanese word shinari describes the powerful yet supple appearance of great resilient force when objects of high tensile strength, such as steel or bamboo, are twisted or bent. It also refers to the appearance of a person or animal as it flexes its body in preparation for a fast movement, and it is these images that form the basis for the name of this concept car.

With images of strength flowing across every panel and part, the Mazda Shinari looks ready to leap at any second. This form incorporates the expression of a strong backbone running through the body, the sudden release of pent-up energy, and the interplay of beautiful, supple movements. The distinctive front fenders represent the further evolution of the prominent fenders introduced on the RX-8. They highlight the dynamic movement expressed in the sides of Shinari, in a style that is both sporty and elegant. Together with the further three-dimensional sculpting of the front grille, the design proudly emphasizes the Mazda lineage. There is a powerful line of movement originating at the grille and continuing through the bonnet, fender, front lamp modules and bumper. Finally, an aluminum floating bar linking the grille with the headlights enhances the three-dimensional expression of speed.

In the interior, Mazda Design has created the 'ultimate athletic space' focused on linking ergonomics with basic mechanical functions. We have designed the optimum space for both the driver cockpit, to enable the driver to focus on the task of driving, as well as the passenger environment, offering a sense of openness. In this model, Mazda offers new ideas for the human-machine interface in cockpit design, enabling the driver to switch at will between three modes: Business, Pleasure and Sport, to enjoy driving in line with the situation at the time.